Use your camera as a meditation tool? The photographic image not only records what it is pointed at – it speaks to the photographer’s relationship with the world and their quality of presence. Are you looking, seeing, trying, rehearsing? Are you present to what is before you?
Miksang is a Tibetan word that translates as ‘Good Eye’, and was developed by photographer Michael Wood and based on the Shambhala and Dharma Art teachings of the late Buddhist teacher and artist Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche. Miksang is described on the official site as:
“…concerned with uncovering the truth of pure perception. We see something vivid and penetrating, and in that moment we can express our perception without making anything up—nothing added, nothing missing. Totally honest about what we see—straight shooting….When we synchronize eye and mind, we abandon all concepts and predispositions and become completely present in the moment. The world becomes a magical display of vivid perception. We can develop the ability to experience and express these experiences precisely through the practice of contemplative photography.”
Thanks for this very thought-provoking video.
Amazing video truly inspiring! Thanks
I love your book! Do U think U will come 2 the UK with your workshops anytime soon?
I starting taking photos when I was about 14 (I am now 71) I fell in love with the work of Henri Cartier-Bresson in the 60's. Gave up photography when it was clear to me that I was taking "good" but boring shots. Bought and read Contemplative Photography, ran out and bought my first DSLR, and began taking photos unlike anything before. Signed up now for a three week set of courses with Julie DuBose. Very excited about that.
Thank you. I didn't realize what it was before, but I guess I've been doing that since I was about 14 years old, almost 40 years now. Never have been to art school, although I almost went to NSAC after high school. Went to sea instead. Now I'm a camera totting farmer 🙂
Hello my name is Christian Figueiredo, photographer'm here in Brazil.
I found the Miksang by chance and decided to research about it, I started seeing pictures of other photographers and surpriendi me when I realized I wore a lot in my photos. I liked your video and believe we must spread the miksang. If you have any material that could send me to study, I thank!